A Landlord-Tenant Rental Checklist

Use a rental checklist to eliminate future disputes about damages.

Wise tenants know to document the condition of the rental property before they move in to reduce or eliminate disputes with the landlord later on. Create a rental checklist for each part of the property, with space for detailed notes. Contact the landlord and insist on completing the checklist together. Take pictures of each room and appliance and always take close-up pictures of anything already damaged or questionable. Once you've completed the rental inspection checklist, make a copy for the landlord and keep the original for comparison when you move out.

Exterior

Ensure you won't be held responsible for existing damages to the exterior of the property by documenting its condition before you move in. Start with the front door, doorbell or knocker, locks, light fixtures and entryway. Check the patio, balcony, garage door, mailbox and stairs, if any. Include any other exterior features at the property, such as a hot tub or rock wall.

Living Areas

Inspect common living areas, such as living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms. Check the condition of doors, walls and floors, including carpet. Examine the windows, including screens, curtain rods or blinds and locking mechanisms. Don't overlook light fixtures, electrical fixtures and closet doors. Include an inspection of any unique features, such as a fireplace. If the rental property is furnished, include notes about any furniture conditions.

Kitchen and Bathrooms

Kitchens and bathrooms include lots of fixtures and appliances, so take extra time when inspecting these areas. Besides the basic checklist you used for the other rooms, add notes about each room's unique features. In the kitchen, examine the cooking range, oven, refrigerator, microwave, sink, disposal, counter tops and cabinets. In the bathrooms, inspect the sink, toilet, towel rods, bathtub, shower and vanity. In the bathroom, carefully note the condition of the caulking around sinks, tubs and toilets. Document any evidence of previous water damage on the walls or floor.

Basement or Utility Room

Take extra time to document the condition of the appliances in the basement or utility room as they can contain some of the most expensive items to replace. Take notes about the condition of the washer and dryer, water heater and furnace. This is also a good opportunity to make notes about the smoke detectors throughout the rental property.

About the Author

Jenna Marie has been editing and writing professionally since 1993. Her editing background includes newspapers, magazines and books, and her articles have appeared in print and on websites such as Life123 and AccessNurses. She specializes in writing about parenting, frugal living, real estate, travel and food. Her nonfiction book was published in 2008. She earned a Bachelor of Science in journalism from Utah State University.